Al Jazeera Journalism Review

How to Bring more Balance to Western Media Coverage of Israel and Palestine

How can journalists accurately cover Palestine without becoming unbalanced or biassed? Here are some concrete tools and techniques for reporters to keep in mind. 

 

When covering Israel and Palestine, many western journalists err in assuming that "balance" means giving equal weight to the perspectives of oppressors and oppressed. Often lacking their own teams on the ground, western outlets have a tendency to parachute journalists in at times of peak conflict. These reporters then rely heavily on "official" sources, seeking quotes from police, politicians, and Israeli human rights organisations as they struggle to piece together a narrative. 

But, as the events of the past month have shown yet again, this approach fails readers and viewers, stripping stories of vital background and context about the realities on the ground. Passive terms such as "clashes" and "escalation" effectively depersonalise events, creating a false equivalence between instigator and responder. This overwhelmingly works to Israel's advantage.

Indeed, there is a severe power imbalance at play in Israel and Palestine, and it is fuelled by western media coverage that persistently portrays Palestinians as aggressors. Instead of reporting on an "Israeli assault" against Palestinians, journalists describe "a flareup of violence" in Gaza. Media outlets recycle the police narrative verbatim, describing how a suspected Palestinian attacker was "neutralised" by Israeli "defence forces.” When news later emerges that the slain "suspect" was in fact an unarmed innocent, it rarely receives the same level of coverage. 

Passive terms such as "clashes" and "escalation" effectively depersonalise events, creating a false equivalence between instigator and responder. This overwhelmingly works to Israel's advantage.

There are a number of reasons for this, including western institutional biases in favour of Israel; fear of offending members of the Israel lobby, as a complaint over alleged "antisemitism" could be career-ending; and editors who blindly apply style-guide rules in an effort to achieve "neutral" language, without really understanding the nuances of the situation in Israel and Palestine. Reporters who push back against such policies can help steer the conversation back towards reality.

 

Techniques for Editors and Journalists to be Unbiased

A number of techniques may help reporters and editors look at their work with fresh eyes and determine whether they are presenting an authentic picture.

Let's take an example of a story that starts with the following line, some formulation of which is very common in the western media: "Clashes have erupted at a protest by Palestinians over a contested neighbourhood in East Jerusalem, with Palestinians hurling stones as Israeli security forces fired rubber bullets and tear gas."

The first step in fixing a sentence like this is to parse the language used. Right off the top, we have the passive construction of "clashes erupted." What does this mean? Surely, both sides did not simultaneously begin attacking each other at once. It's important to look at what precipitated the violence. If Palestinians were holding a peaceful protest and Israeli police stormed in, firing weapons in a bid to end the demonstration, then the article should be framed accordingly.

There is a severe power imbalance at play in Israel and Palestine, and it is fuelled by western media coverage that persistently portrays Palestinians as aggressors. 

And is the neighbourhood really "contested" if Palestinians were granted these properties under a UN-sponsored agreement and have been living there for generations, but Israeli settlers have decided they want to move in? Even a term such as "rubber bullets," as opposed to the more accurate "rubber-coated steel bullets," paints a certain picture.

In contrast, read the following lead: "Israeli police have raided a peaceful demonstration in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of occupied East Jerusalem, firing rubber-coated steel bullets and tear gas at Palestinians who had gathered to protest the attempted takeover of their homes by settlers. Some Palestinians picked up stones off the side of the road and hurled them at the heavily armed officers, saying their right to protest was being violated." 

The second construction tells us a lot more about what's happening and why. Instead of ambiguous "clashes" over a "contested" neighbourhood, we can understand that Israel raided a protest by Palestinians who were demonstrating against settler encroachment. Rather than being left with the notion that both sides were attacking each other simultaneously, we can see the sequence of events: Israeli police moved in to violently disperse the protest, and Palestinians responded. Obviously, if there was an element of instigation on the Palestinian side, that should also be reported—but in the vast majority of stories in the western press, it is the Israeli offences that are being whitewashed.

Another important technique when it comes to balancing the story is to spend some time exploring the background. It can be helpful to develop a timeline in reverse. If the end state is that "clashes" broke out between Israelis and Palestinians, what happened directly beforehand? Palestinians were holding a protest action. Why, what led to this protest? An Israeli court ruled that several Palestinian families had to vacate their homes, where they have lived for generations. What led to this court ruling? 

In reality, however, we are dealing with ongoing land theft, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing that is affecting the lives of millions of Palestinians every day. It is incredibly important for journalists to get this right.

Continuing down this path would take the reporter deeper into the history of Sheikh Jarrah and the bigger-picture context of Israel's ongoing land theft and biassed justice system, all vital to understanding the story. Tracing the ebb and flow of protests over time could also help to draw out additional contextual elements, such as the US "deal of the century" and normalisation between Israel and Arab states, which have contributed to Palestinian dispossession.

Another important consideration is the imagery accompanying the story. As an editor, would you choose an image of a masked Palestinian hurling a stone, or a photo of a throng of heavily armed Israeli soldiers staring down a group of unarmed Palestinian youths? If you choose the former, why? Does it leave readers with an accurate picture of what's happening, or a one-sided view? Is there a better image you could choose? 

The same goes for selecting quotes. Rather than allowing an Israeli politician in Jerusalem to expound on the notion that Israel is a "Jewish state" and all Palestinians are "terrorists," be selective. As a reporter, you are not obliged to quote everyone you interview, particularly if they're spouting untruths, and officials do not have a blanket entitlement to be quoted in your piece. Ask which voices are vital to telling the story. Whose rights are being violated, and whose voices are being neglected? Seek those people out, even if it takes more work than calling a police or government spokesperson. 

But in situations where one side does not have a voice—where one side is consistently being oppressed and silenced—then our job as members of the media is to help their story be told. 

In the simplest of contexts, such as reporting on an ongoing court case, balance requires airing both sides in relatively equal proportion. But in situations where one side does not have a voice—where one side is consistently being oppressed and silenced—then our job as members of the media is to help their story be told. 

One element sadly lacking from a lot of western coverage of Israel and Palestine is the human face, as reporters and editors fall back on the terminology of occupation. The end result leaves readers and viewers with a confused notion of an amorphous, eternal conflict, to which many cannot relate. In reality, however, we are dealing with ongoing land theft, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing that is affecting the lives of millions of Palestinians every day. It is incredibly important for journalists to get this right.

 

*Picture: Jerusalem, April 24, 2021 (Amir Levy-Getty Images).

First published on Al Jazeera Journalism Review on May 17, 2021

More Articles

A Half-Truth is a Full Lie

Misinformation is rampant in modern conflicts, worsened by the internet and social media, where false news spreads easily. While news agencies aim to provide unbiased, fact-based reporting, their focus on brevity and hard facts often lacks the necessary context, leaving the public vulnerable to manipulation and unable to fully grasp the complexities of these issues.

Ilya
Ilya U Topper Published on: 30 Sep, 2024
Monitoring of Journalistic Malpractices in Gaza Coverage

On this page, the editorial team of the Al Jazeera Journalism Review will collect news published by media institutions about the current war on Gaza that involves disinformation, bias, or professional journalistic standards and its code of ethics.

A picture of the Al Jazeera Media Institute's logo, on a white background.
Al Jazeera Journalism Review Published on: 24 Sep, 2024
Anonymous Sources in the New York Times... Covering the War with One Eye

The use of anonymous sources in journalism is considered, within professional and ethical standards, a “last option” for journalists. However, analysis of New York Times data reveals a persistent pattern in the use of “anonymity” to support specific narratives, especially Israeli narratives.

Mohammad Zeidan
Mohammad Zeidan Published on: 8 Sep, 2024
Monitoring of Journalistic Malpractices in Gaza Coverage

On this page, the editorial team of the Al Jazeera Journalism Review will collect news published by media institutions about the current war on Gaza that involves disinformation, bias, or professional journalistic standards and its code of ethics.

A picture of the Al Jazeera Media Institute's logo, on a white background.
Al Jazeera Journalism Review Published on: 5 Sep, 2024
Bangladesh: Why Were Foreign Correspondents Absent?

In the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, many foreign journalists were reporting from nearby regions like New Delhi. In this absence, local journalists played an important role in conveying firsthand accounts of the events that unfolded to the world.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 26 Aug, 2024
Analysis: Media Disinformation and UK Far-Right Riots

Analysis on the impact of media disinformation on public opinion, particularly during UK riots incited by far-right groups. A look at how sensationalist media can directly influence audience behavior, as per the Hypodermic Needle Theory, leading to normalized discrimination and violence. The need for responsible journalism is emphasized to prevent such harmful effects.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 8 Aug, 2024
Challenges for Female Journalists in Crisis Zones of Cameroon

Testimonies of what female journalists in Cameroon are facing and how they are challenging these difficulties.

Akem
Akem Nkwain Published on: 30 Jul, 2024
From TV Screens to YouTube: The Rise of Exiled Journalists in Pakistan

Pakistani journalists are leveraging YouTube to overcome censorship, connecting with global audiences, and redefining independent reporting in their homeland.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 28 Jul, 2024
Press Freedom in Multiple EU Countries on the "Verge of Collapse" Reports Show

The European Civil Liberties Union's Media Freedom 2024 report highlights a decline in press freedom and media pluralism in several EU countries, with calls for comprehensive reforms. The report also points out biases in Western media coverage of the Israeli offensive in Gaza, including restrictions on certain terms and unbalanced reporting. It raises concerns about diminishing media pluralism, journalist prosecution and surveillance, and declining public trust in the media.

A picture of the Al Jazeera Media Institute's logo, on a white background.
Al Jazeera Journalism Review Published on: 13 May, 2024
Amid Increasing Pressure, Journalists in India Practice More Self-Censorship

In a country where nearly 970 million people are participating in a crucial general election, the state of journalism in India is under scrutiny. Journalists face harassment, self-censorship, and attacks, especially under the current Modi-led government. Mainstream media also practices self-censorship to avoid repercussions. The future of journalism in India appears uncertain, but hope lies in the resilience of independent media outlets.

Hanan Zaffa
Hanan Zaffar, Jyoti Thakur Published on: 25 Apr, 2024
Journalism in chains in Cameroon

Investigative journalists in Cameroon sometimes use treacherous means to navigate the numerous challenges that hamper the practice of their profession: the absence of the Freedom of Information Act, the criminalisation of press offenses, and the scare of the overly-broad anti-terrorism law.

Nalova Akua
Nalova Akua Published on: 12 Apr, 2024
The Perils of Journalism and the Rise of Citizen Media in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia's media landscape is grim, with low rankings for internet and press freedom across the region. While citizen journalism has risen to fill the gaps, journalists - both professional and citizen - face significant risks due to government crackdowns and the collusion between tech companies and authorities to enable censorship and surveillance.

AJR Contributor Published on: 6 Apr, 2024
Silenced Voices: The Battle for Free Expression Amid India’s Farmer’s Protest

The Indian government's use of legal mechanisms to suppress dissenting voices and news reports raises questions about transparency and freedom of expression. The challenges faced by independent media in India indicate a broader narrative of controlling the narrative and stifling dissenting voices.

Suvrat Arora
Suvrat Arora Published on: 17 Mar, 2024
Targeting Truth: Assault on Female Journalists in Gaza

For female journalists in Palestine, celebrating international women's rights this year must take a backseat, as they continue facing the harsh realities of conflict. March 8th will carry little celebration for them, as they grapple with the severe risks of violence, mass displacement, and the vulnerability of abandonment amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Their focus remains on bearing witness to human suffering and sharing stories of resilience from the frontlines, despite the personal dangers involved in their work.

Fatima Bashir
Fatima Bashir Published on: 14 Mar, 2024
A Woman's Journey Reporting on Pakistan's Thrilling Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally

A Woman's Voice in the Desert: Navigating the Spotlight

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 8 Mar, 2024
Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Citizen Journalists in India's Fight for Media Inclusion

Grassroots journalists from marginalized communities in India, including Dalits and Muslims, are challenging mainstream media narratives and bringing attention to underreported issues through digital outlets like The Mooknayak.

Hanan Zaffa
Hanan Zaffar, Jyoti Thakur Published on: 3 Mar, 2024
Silenced Voices and Digital Resilience: The Case of Quds Network

Unrecognized journalists in conflict zones face serious risks to their safety and lack of support. The Quds Network, a Palestinian media outlet, has been targeted and censored, but they continue to report on the ground in Gaza. Recognition and support for independent journalists are crucial.

Yousef Abu Watfe يوسف أبو وطفة
Yousef Abu Watfeh Published on: 21 Feb, 2024
Artificial Intelligence's Potentials and Challenges in the African Media Landscape

How has the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence impacted newsroom operations, job security and regulation in the African media landscape? And how are journalists in Africa adapting to these changes?

Derick Matsengarwodzi
Derick Matsengarwodzi Published on: 18 Feb, 2024
Media Blackout on Imran Khan and PTI: Analysing Pakistan's Election Press Restrictions

Implications and response to media censorship and the deliberate absence of coverage for the popular former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in the media during the 2024 elections in Pakistan.

Anam Hussain
Anam Hussain Published on: 14 Feb, 2024
Digital Battlegrounds: The New Broadcasting Bill and Independent Journalism in India

New legislation in India threatens the freedom of independent journalism. The draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 grants the government extensive power to regulate and censor content, potentially suppressing news critical of government policies.

Safina
Safina Nabi Published on: 11 Feb, 2024
Pegasus Spyware: A Grave Threat to Journalists in Southeast Asia

The widespread deployment of spyware such as Pegasus in Southeast Asia, used by governments to target opposition leaders, activists, and journalists, presents significant challenges in countering digital surveillance. This is due to its clandestine operations and the political intricacies involved. The situation underscores the urgent need for international cooperation and heightened public awareness to address these human rights infringements.

AJR Contributor Published on: 5 Feb, 2024
Media Monopoly in Brazil: How Dominant Media Houses Control the Narrative and Stifle Criticism of Israel

An in-depth analysis exploring the concentration of media ownership in Brazil by large companies, and how this shapes public and political narratives, particularly by suppressing criticism of Israel.

Cameroonian Media Martyrs: The Intersection of Journalism and Activism

Experts and journalists in Cameroon disagree on the relationship between journalism and activism: some say journalism is activism; others think they are worlds apart, while another category says a “very thin” line separate both

Nalova Akua
Nalova Akua Published on: 28 Jan, 2024
Silent Suffering: The Impact of Sexual Harassment on African Newsrooms

Sexual harassment within newsrooms and the broader journalistic ecosystem is affecting the quality and integrity of journalistic work, ultimately impacting the organisation’s integrity and revenue.

Derick Matsengarwodzi
Derick Matsengarwodzi Published on: 23 Jan, 2024